Paximadia
melomakarona inspired
By: Eleni Saltas
I’ve made it my mission to explore and create as many paximadia flavors as I possibly can, so I’m extra excited to present the fusion of two beloved Greek cookies—melomakarona and paximadia. Melomakarona, renowned honey cookies traditionally associated with Christmas, boast distinctive flavors like cinnamon, orange juice, and honey. These rich flavors shine in the dough that transforms into the twice-baked Greek paximadia. Fresh out of the oven, savor paximadia plain or take them to greater heights by dipping the cooled cookies into a honey syrup. Finish it off with a sprinkle of walnuts for the signature melomakarona magic. Now, the joy of Christmas can be felt year-round, and all you need is a comforting cup of coffee.
Prep Time:
10 min
Total Time:
60 min
Servings:
~50 cookies
Good For:
Dessert/Breakfast
Ingredients
-
1 cup vegetable oil
-
¾ cup orange juice
-
Zest of one orange
-
½ cup sugar
-
1 egg, beaten
-
1 ounce whiskey
-
2 tablespoons honey
-
3 to ½ cup flour, or more if necessary
-
1 teaspoon baking powder
-
½ teaspoon baking soda
-
½ teaspoon salt
-
2 ½ teaspoons cinnamon
-
½ teaspoon ground cloves
-
Dash of nutmeg
-
1 cup finely chopped walnuts
For the optional honey syrup:
-
½ cup honey
-
1 tablespoon sugar
-
¼ cup water
-
1 cinnamon stick
-
chopped walnuts, for sprinkling
Step by Step Instructions
Step 1
In a small saucepan, combine the honey, sugar, water, and a cinnamon stick. Bring to a gentle simmer over medium heat, stirring occasionally. Simmer for 5-7 minutes until the mixture slightly thickens. Remove the cinnamon stick and set the syrup aside to cool.
Step 2
Preheat oven to 350F. Lightly grease a baking sheet and set it aside.
In a large mixing bowl, combine vegetable oil, orange juice, orange zest, and sugar. Mix until the sugar is dissolved. Add the beaten egg, whiskey, and honey, stirring until well combined.
Step 3
In a separate bowl, whisk together 3 cups of flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, cinnamon, ground cloves, and nutmeg. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, stirring continuously. Adjust with more flour if needed. Stir in the finely chopped walnuts.
Step 4
Divide the dough in half. On a floured surface, shape each half into a log about 12 inches long and 2 inches wide (or length of your baking sheet). Place the logs on the prepared baking sheet, leaving space between them. Score the loaves with a serrated knife for easier slicing later.
Step 5
Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes or until the logs are firm to the touch and lightly golden brown. Remove from the oven and let them cool for about 10 minutes. Reduce the oven temperature to 325°F (160°C).
Cut through the pre-scored slices and lay the cookies on the baking sheet, cut side down. Bake for an additional 15-20 minutes, or until they are golden. Flip the cookies halfway through the baking time for even browning.
Step 6
Once the paximadia are cooled completely, lightly dip the top side of each paximadia into the honey syrup and sprinkle with chopped walnuts. Allow to set before serving.
I love this idea.
One suggestion. Substitute orange juice for the water in making the syrup. You can also reduce the sugar since the orange juice will add some sweetness. ♡
oooh great suggestion i’ll definitely do that next time!
This is brilliant!
thank you! enjoy 🙂
I’m surprised with the addition of the egg? Sounds wonderful though!
I found It binds better, you can totally leave out eggs though.
Thank you.. I left out the egg as well, turned out delish
ahhh perfect i’m glad!
I’m keen to try .. -raising flour?